Artie Ojeda @ArtieNBCSD
BREAKING: First look at rendering of MLS Stadium concept at Qualcomm Stadium site. Standing by for details. #nbc7
Three investors insist no taxpayer money. Must file for MLS application by Jan 31st.
plan would also include a stake in Mexican soccer league and bring a team to play here.
first step would be to develop 30 acres of River Park, no public expense. Would eventually total 55 (same as Measure D)
have had discussion with SDSU for joint stadium "quite hopeful" about working with university.
plan would also include "transit oriented development with student focused housing."
big challenge will be land acquisition. Land needs to be assessed for fair market value "to protect taxpayers."
SDSU asked to assume half of 200-million cost. Investors will then donate their half 5 years down the road.
investors say plan would relieve city of millions of dollars of negative financial liability.
investor group and city would split maintenance costs of proposed stadium.
Investors putting pressure squarly on city council. Will gather signatures and ask city to "direct adopt" plan.
investors say city must "direct adopt". If goes to a ballot vote, they will lose MLS bid.
HUGE point here. Investors say if city doesn't direct adopt (no public vote), they back out. It will be a deal breaker.
investors say city needs to act quickly because MLS application deadline is January 31st (yeah, real fast).
SDSU response: "Have had discussions, excited about reviewing complete proposal. Our priority is having a home for Aztec football and a plan for potential student housing and research facilities."